Over a 20-year period, the grade point average increased from 2.8 to 3.8.

Daniels said other data shows coursework is more rigorous now.

He credits students coming to college more prepared and the university’s mission to help students do well.

“We’re very committed to student success now,” said Daniels. “We want students to progress more surely. We want fewer to fail. We want, therefore, grades to get better, but for the right reasons and not because we’ve relaxed our rigor.”

Daniels said the University Senate is still looking into the possibility of grade inflation.

In the meantime, he said Purdue will continue its dedication to student success.